Internationally acclaimed golf photographer Kevin Murray has seen some of the world’s most spectacular courses.
So when he describes a venue as “superb” and predicts it will rank among his personal top five, the golfing world listens.
His praise is aimed squarely at the new Shura Links Golf Course, opening this September on Shura Island in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia—a destination that is rapidly positioning itself as one of the most exciting emerging golf hotspots on the planet.
Developed by Red Sea Global and managed by Golf Saudi, Shura Links is the first island golf course in the Kingdom.
Designed by renowned course architect Brian Curley, the par-72, 7,500-yard layout has been carefully shaped to harmonize with Shura Island’s dramatic natural environment, weaving through mangroves, over sweeping dunes, and alongside shimmering shoreline waters.
The result is a course that is not just visually striking, but also rich in strategic challenge.
“It’s going to be an awesome test for players of all abilities,” Murray shared. “The setting, the shaping, the way the course flows—it’s something special.”
A Course for Everyone — from Beginners to Major Champions
Curley’s design incorporates generous fairways that welcome newcomers to the game, while still offering the level of nuance and complexity required for elite competition.
This dual purpose hints at major tournament potential, something the region has increasingly been targeting.
One standout feature is the two-acre putting course, expected to rival some of the most celebrated practice greens globally, adding to the course’s allure as a complete golfing destination.
Redefining Global Golf Travel
Shura Links is part of Red Sea Global’s broader vision to reshape luxury travel experiences. The project team is actively showcasing the course and the wider destination at international events, including
- The International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) in France,
- Elevate Golf in the UK, and
- The World Travel Market (WTM) in London is signaling strong ambitions to attract golfers from all corners of the world.
Visitors will soon be able to pair championship golf with unparalleled hospitality, thanks to 11 luxury hotels opening near the course. These include:
- Four Seasons Resort Red Sea at Shura Island
- Grand Hyatt The Red Sea
- Fairmont The Red Sea
- Rosewood Red Sea
This October alone marks a significant expansion of Red Sea Global’s hospitality offerings, with EDITION opening to guests and SLS and InterContinental soon to follow.
Where Luxury Meets Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability is central to Shura Links’ identity. By working with the OnCourse® platform, Red Sea Global is ensuring responsible course management through:
- Smart turfgrass selection to reduce water consumption.
- Soil sensors to monitor moisture and prevent waste.
- The POGO system measures temperature, salinity, and weather conditions to fine-tune care practices.
Even the striking clubhouse reflects thoughtful design.
Inspired by the region’s unique flora and fauna, the architectural concept—developed as part of the Coral Bloom design series by Foster + Partners—blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
A Destination Built to Inspire
Shura Links is more than just a new course—it is the centerpiece of a world-class sporting, leisure, and travel experience. One that marries championship-caliber golf with pristine island beauty, sustainable innovation, and ultra-luxury hospitality.
If Kevin Murray’s early impressions are any indication, Shura Links is poised not just to impress, but to redefine what golf in a coastal destination can be.
The golfing world is paying attention—and soon, it will be booking tee times.